Working through the rough

"It's not the mountains we conquer, but ourselves." ~ Theodore Roethke

When I'm processing the difficult, facing the impossible, or just carrying the weight of frustrations, pain, disappointments, I run to the mountains. That is my place of refuge, though I'm sure such places vary for every individual. In my adventures through the forests, I think more clearly. I let go of the things that are too heavy for me to carry. I seek the Creator of all that is beautiful. I let go of anger. I breathe in the forest air. I gain perspective.

The challenges in my life still await me when I return, and in my wanderings, I become more resigned within myself to those challenges. In the process of that resignation, I am renewed with strength not my own. 

When Krista was back here for Christmas break, we were both motivated for a number of reasons to hike off some rough spots that life had hurled our way. We determined to try to walk 50 miles during her stay, and we accomplished our goal. We made beautiful memories filled with life-giving conversation and we were both healed and strengthened through our wilderness wanderings together. Most of the boys accompanied us on these hikes which made the hikes all the sweeter. These are memories I will hold close to my heart for all my days. 

From Matador Coffee to home 

My hill a couple of times because... obviously. :-) 

Elden Springs Trail to Little Bear Trail to Sunset Trail to Heart Trail to Sandy Seep Trail... whew. 

The Arizona Trail

The Grand Canyon 

S. Kaibab to Tonto to Bright Angel

(fossilized animal prints!)

As always, goodbyes are the hardest part... 

"I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from..." ~ Psalm 121:1